Polar Skate Co is the creation of artistically renowned Pontus Alv, established in 2011 and based in Malmö, Sweden. With it’s mix of core skate values, clean and original design and art work, you can easily see how hard Polar work on putting out an incredible product. Whether it’s their board graphics, clothing line, touring, video edits or even the soundtrack for the video, Pontus has a clear vision of what he wants Polar clothing to be.
Creators of the most infamous baggy jeans in skatewear, the Polar Skate Co Big Boy.
Polar Skate Co represents the bold intersection of Scandinavian minimalism and skateboarding's progressive edge, engineered specifically to deliver the perfect balance of creative vision, technical performance, and cultural authenticity that transformed independent brands into global skateboard culture leaders through artistic innovation and community-driven excellence. Polar UK has evolved from Stockholm's DIY underground scene to worldwide recognition featuring iconic graphics, premium deck constructions, and apparel that captures skateboarding as creative art form rather than mere athletic endeavour. Like skateboarding itself, Polar design holds authenticity and experimentation at its core, creating essential pieces that bridge Nordic minimalism with urban creativity while maintaining genuine connection to the artists, riders, and communities that define contemporary skateboard culture's progressive spirit. Shop the finest in artistic skate expression from Polar Skate Co.
Revolutionary since 2011 and constantly evolving with independent skateboard culture, Polar Skate Co embodies creative freedom through Pontus Alv's visionary leadership and commitment to artistic collaboration over commercial formula. What started as Swedish professional skateboarder Pontus Alv's rebellion against corporate constraints has transformed into skateboarding's most respected creative institution featuring groundbreaking video projects like "I Like It Here Inside My Mind, Don't Wake Me This Time," international team riders across multiple continents, and collaborations with artists including Jacob Ovgren, Stefan Narancic, and AMTK that elevated skateboard graphics into gallery-worthy art. From their signature Happy/Sad motif that became synonymous with authentic skateboard culture to contemporary interpretations featuring cosmic imagery, hand-drawn illustrations, and conceptual designs that push creative boundaries, every authentic Polar piece combines Scandinavian design principles with skateboard functionality. Whether you're after their minimal logo decks that showcase clean aesthetic perfection or contemporary artist series featuring limited-run graphics and premium construction, Polar transforms your skating while providing the creativity, authenticity, and cultural credibility that serious skateboard culture demands, created by visionaries who understand that great skateboard companies should inspire artistic expression rather than follow predictable commercial trends.
Polar Skate Co Brand History & Evolution
Back in 2011, when Swedish professional skateboarder Pontus Alv (who also founded Last Resort shoes) found himself increasingly frustrated with corporate skateboard industry limitations that prevented authentic creative expression and meaningful artistic collaboration, he recognised an opportunity to create something revolutionary within skateboard culture that could prioritise artistic vision over marketing formulas and commercial safety. His previous work producing groundbreaking independent skateboard videos including "Strongest of the Strange" (2005) and "In Search of the Miraculous" (2010) had demonstrated his ability to document skateboard culture through cinematic artistry that elevated simple trick footage into cultural commentary and visual poetry. The launch of Polar Skate Co began modestly with small-run deck releases featuring Pontus's own artwork and photography, sold through select skateboard shops that appreciated authentic artistic vision over mass-market appeal, creating immediate underground credibility within communities that valued creativity over commercial success. The brand philosophy embraced DIY ethics and creative risk-taking, with early releases featuring limited quantities and experimental graphics that contrasted sharply with mainstream skateboard company approaches focused on demographic targeting and trend-following rather than genuine artistic innovation. Team development occurred organically through genuine relationships within international skateboard communities, with riders like Hjalte Halberg from Denmark, Jerome Campbell from Sweden, and later additions including Nick Boserio from the Oz representing diverse geographical perspectives united by shared appreciation for creative skateboarding over purely competitive achievement. The breakthrough video "The Polar Skate Co. Promo" (2012) established Polar's reputation for innovative cinematography, experimental editing techniques, and production values that influenced skateboard video culture while documenting authentic team skating rather than creating promotional material designed purely for product sales. Graphic collaborations with artists including Jacob Ovgren, whose cartoony and light-hearted illustrations brought playful energy, Stefan Narancic, whose cosmic and science fiction imagery added conceptual depth, and AMTK, whose contemporary artistic approach pushed creative boundaries, demonstrated Polar's commitment to supporting diverse artistic voices rather than maintaining single aesthetic approach. The company's rapid growth from niche Swedish brand to international recognition occurred through authentic word-of-mouth appreciation rather than aggressive marketing campaigns, with partnerships including collaborations with Carhartt WIP, Converse Cons, and Nike SB proving that independent brands could achieve mainstream recognition without compromising artistic integrity or cultural authenticity. Video projects including "No Complies & Wallrides + Shuvits" (2012) and the full-length "I Like It Here Inside My Mind, Don't Wake Me This Time" (2016) established Polar as serious contributors to skateboard culture through cinematic approaches that prioritised artistic storytelling over conventional trick documentation, influencing countless filmmakers and establishing new standards for skateboard video production. Recognition through industry awards including multiple BESA (Bright European Skateboard Awards) wins for "Brand of the Year" and Pontus Alv's individual recognition for videography demonstrated professional acknowledgment of their cultural contributions while maintaining underground credibility and authentic community connections. International team expansion including Aaron Herrington, Dane Brady, Shin Sanbongi, and Roman Gonzalez created truly global representation while maintaining selective standards based on creative skateboarding approach rather than demographic considerations or commercial appeal, proving that authentic talent transcends geographical boundaries when united by shared artistic values. Recent developments including "Sounds Like You Guys Are Crushing It" (2022) and continued artistic collaborations demonstrate Polar's ongoing commitment to pushing skateboard culture boundaries while preserving the creative integrity and community-driven approach that established their reputation as leaders rather than followers within contemporary skateboard innovation. From those early Stockholm experiments to today's position as skateboard culture's premier creative institution, Polar Skate Co has grown by consistently maintaining their commitment to artistic excellence, international community building, and that distinctive approach to business that serves skateboard culture's creative potential rather than exploiting it for purely commercial gain or mainstream market expansion.
Polar Skate Co Key Features & Construction
What separates Polar Skate Co from conventional skateboard companies comes down to specific artistic elements and construction philosophy developed through genuine understanding of skateboard culture as creative medium rather than purely athletic equipment market. Premium Polar decks feature quality 7-ply Canadian maple construction with carefully engineered concave specifications including their signature P5 medium and P8 steep profiles that serve different riding styles while maintaining consistent pop and control characteristics developed through professional team rider feedback and testing. Modern construction includes advanced pressing techniques that create uniform board feel across different graphic applications, with particular attention to preserving artwork integrity through high-quality screen printing processes that maintain visual impact and colour accuracy through repeated skateboard use and grip tape application. The graphic design process embraces artistic collaboration through partnerships with established illustrators, photographers, and conceptual artists who understand skateboard culture deeply enough to create artwork that enhances rather than simply decorates deck surfaces, resulting in graphics that serve as cultural statements and collectible art pieces beyond mere brand identification. Contemporary Polar aesthetics range from minimal logo applications that showcase Scandinavian design principles to complex artistic collaborations featuring hand-drawn illustrations, cosmic imagery, and experimental compositions that push creative boundaries while maintaining authentic skateboard credibility and functional performance standards. Quality details include precision graphic registration that maintains design integrity across different deck sizes, premium screen printing inks that resist fading through skateboard abuse, and construction standards that reflect commitment to supporting professional skateboarding rather than cutting costs through inferior materials or manufacturing processes. The artistic philosophy extends beyond individual graphics into comprehensive brand presentation that maintains creative consistency through collaborative partnerships, team selection based on artistic skateboarding approach, and video production that documents authentic culture rather than creating promotional content designed purely for commercial purposes. Apparel construction features heavyweight organic cotton materials with careful attention to fit specifications that work for skating and daily wear, subtle branding approaches that prioritise design integrity over logo visibility, and screen printing or embroidery techniques that preserve graphic quality while maintaining garment durability through repeated washing and wear. Limited edition releases and artist series demonstrate Polar's commitment to treating skateboard products as cultural artefacts rather than disposable consumer goods, creating items with lasting artistic value that appreciate over time rather than following trend cycles that create artificial obsolescence and waste. Whether featuring classic minimal aesthetics that showcase timeless Scandinavian design principles or contemporary artistic collaborations that explore new creative territories, authentic Polar products represent the intersection of artistic innovation, skateboard functionality, and decades of creative refinement by visionaries who understand that great skateboard companies should inspire cultural progress, support artistic communities, and elevate skateboard culture's creative potential rather than simply manufacturing products for mass consumption or commercial exploitation.
Polar Skate Co Skate Team
The Polar Skate Co team represents skateboarding's global creative evolution, featuring riders who embody artistic vision, technical mastery, and authentic commitment to skateboard culture's progressive potential rather than purely commercial considerations or competitive achievements.
Pontus Alv:
Founder, visionary, and creative director whose artistic leadership guides every aspect of Polar's cultural contributions. His transition from professional skateboarder to independent brand owner demonstrates the potential for authentic creative control within skateboard industry while maintaining genuine connection to underground culture and artistic innovation.
Nick Boserio:
American street skating phenomenon whose technical precision and creative spot selection perfectly embody Polar's international appeal and commitment to supporting diverse skateboard talent. His video contributions showcase innovative approaches to urban architecture while maintaining authentic street credibility and progressive skateboarding vision.
Hjalte Halberg:
Danish street skating legend whose powerful ledge techniques and consistent video output represent Polar's European foundation and commitment to supporting regional talent. His long-term involvement demonstrates the brand's ability to maintain authentic relationships based on creative collaboration rather than purely commercial arrangements.
Aaron Herrington:
Versatile American skater whose abilities span street and transition disciplines while maintaining creative approach that aligns with Polar's artistic vision. His progression within the team structure showcases Polar's commitment to developing talent through genuine support rather than commercial exploitation.
Jamie Platt:
British street skating talent whose recent promotion to professional status during video premieres demonstrates Polar's commitment to supporting regional scenes while maintaining international perspective. His technical development represents contemporary skateboard progression while maintaining connection to Polar's creative values.
Shin Sanbongi:
Japanese street skater whose international perspective brings Asian representation to Polar's global vision. His creative approach to skateboard progression reflects the brand's commitment to supporting diverse cultural expressions within contemporary skateboard culture and artistic innovation.
Dane Brady:
Technical street skater whose video contributions demonstrate creative problem-solving and artistic interpretation that define Polar's approach to contemporary skateboarding. His involvement spans multiple video projects, showcasing consistency and commitment to the brand's cultural mission and creative collaboration.
Oskar Rozenberg Hallberg (Oski):
Swedish technical master whose innovative trick selection and spot utilisation perfectly capture Polar's Scandinavian roots while maintaining international appeal. His video parts showcase the creative potential of contemporary street skating while maintaining authentic connection to Polar's artistic vision.
Polar Skate Co Product Categories
Explore our comprehensive range of Polar Skate Co UK at The Vines Supply Co., featuring artistic excellence, premium construction, and creative innovation that represents the finest in contemporary skateboard culture.
Polar Classic Logo Decks:
Minimalist logo graphics featuring crisp white backgrounds, muted colour palettes, and clean typography that showcase Scandinavian design principles. Available in P5 medium and P8 steep concave profiles with premium maple construction and subtle branding that prioritises aesthetic integrity over commercial visibility, Polar skate decks are some of our best sellers.
Polar Artist Series Decks:
Limited-edition collaborations featuring established artists including Jacob Ovgren, Stefan Narancic, and AMTK. Each series is numbered and produced in small quantities, creating collectible skateboard art that maintains cultural significance while providing authentic skateboard performance for serious riding.
Polar T-Shirts:
Signature motif featuring Pontus Alv's and the rest of the Polar art teams iconic designs that became synonymous with authentic skateboard culture. These tees graphics have come to represent Polar's cultural heritage while maintaining contemporary relevance through quality construction and artistic execution that transcends trend-following approaches.
Polar Cosmic & Conceptual Series:
Stefan Narancic-inspired graphics featuring space imagery, science fiction themes, and conceptual compositions that push creative boundaries within skateboard design. These releases demonstrate Polar's commitment to artistic innovation while maintaining functional skateboard performance and cultural authenticity.
Polar Premium Apparel:
Heavyweight organic cotton construction featuring subtle branding, artistic graphics, and Scandinavian design sensibilities. From minimal logo tees to artistic collaborations on hoodies and shirts, these pieces extend Polar's creative vision into daily wear while maintaining skateboard culture credibility and environmental responsibility.
Polar Big Boy Jeans:
Without doubt, the most iconic jeans in skating. These are a consistent winner year after year. Check out our Big Boys size guide to make sure you get the perfect fir for you.
Polar Skate Co Buying Guide
Choosing Polar Skate Co depends on your appreciation for artistic skateboard culture, Scandinavian design principles, and understanding of creative innovation rather than commercial trend-following approaches. For authentic artistic skateboarding, focus on their classic logo decks that showcase minimalist perfection, premium construction through Canadian maple and professional concave options, and aesthetic approach that prioritises timeless design over temporary fashion trends while maintaining serious skateboard performance. Consider their artist series for investment-quality skateboard art through genuine collaborations with established creators, limited availability that ensures collectible value, and graphic applications that demonstrate sophisticated approach to skateboard design as cultural medium rather than simple commercial product. Quality matters significantly with Polar, premium materials and artistic construction justify pricing through superior durability, authentic cultural significance, and commitment to supporting genuine skateboard art rather than mass-produced alternatives that lack creative foundation or authentic artistic vision. Concave selection serves different riding preferences, P5 medium concave for versatile skating across street and transition applications, P8 steep concave for technical street skating that requires enhanced control, and consistent construction standards that maintain performance characteristics across different graphic applications. Graphic appreciation reflects personal artistic taste, minimal logo designs for timeless Scandinavian aesthetics, artist collaborations for creative expression, and Happy/Sad motifs that connect to Polar's cultural heritage and authentic skateboard history rather than trend-driven commercial imagery. Cultural context enhances decision-making, understanding Pontus Alv's journey from professional skateboarder to independent creative director, Polar's role in establishing small brand renaissance within skateboard industry, and their commitment to international community building creates deeper connection to authentic skateboard culture and artistic progression. Apparel choices should align with appreciation for quality construction and subtle branding, heavyweight organic cotton that justifies investment through durability and comfort, and design approaches that complement rather than compete with Polar's sophisticated aesthetic vision and environmental responsibility values. Collaboration pieces represent exceptional value through combination of Polar's creative expertise with established brand partnerships, limited availability that makes them investments in authentic skateboard culture, and artistic applications that demonstrate sophisticated approach to maintaining creative integrity while achieving mainstream recognition. Consider long-term cultural significance through supporting genuinely independent skateboard companies, artwork created by established artists rather than generic graphic designers, and brands that maintain authentic contribution to skateboard culture through consistent video production and community involvement rather than purely commercial activities. Most importantly, choose Polar Skate Co when you appreciate skateboard culture's artistic potential and creative innovation, as the brand represents genuine celebration of international skateboard community by visionaries who understand that great skateboard companies should inspire artistic progress, support creative communities, and elevate skateboard culture's global influence rather than simply manufacturing products for commercial consumption or demographic targeting.
Polar Skate Co FAQs
What makes Polar different from other skateboard companies? Polar prioritises artistic vision and creative collaboration over commercial formulas, founded by Pontus Alv to escape corporate constraints. The brand features genuine artist partnerships, innovative video production, and Scandinavian design principles that elevate skateboard culture through authentic creative expression rather than trend-following approaches.
What is the difference between P5 and P8 concave profiles? P5 offers medium concave suitable for versatile riding across street and transition applications, while P8 features steep concave designed for technical street skating requiring enhanced board control. Both maintain consistent pop and quality construction standards developed through professional team rider feedback.
Are Polar artist series decks suitable for serious skating? Absolutely, artist series maintain identical construction standards as core models using premium Canadian maple with professional concave specifications. The artistic graphics enhance cultural value without compromising skateboard performance, creating functional art pieces rather than simple collectibles.
Who creates the artwork for Polar boards? Collaborating artists include Jacob Ovgren (cartoony illustrations), Stefan Narancic (cosmic and sci-fi imagery), AMTK (contemporary art), and Pontus Alv's own photography and artwork. Each artist brings unique perspective while understanding skateboard culture's creative requirements and authentic expression needs.
What is the significance of the Happy/Sad motif? Created by Pontus Alv, the Happy/Sad design became synonymous with Polar's authentic skateboard culture and artistic approach. This iconic motif represents the brand's cultural heritage while maintaining contemporary relevance through quality construction and meaningful artistic execution.
How does Polar maintain authenticity while achieving global success? Polar preserves creative integrity through artist collaborations over commercial design committees, team selection based on skateboarding creativity rather than demographics, and video production that documents authentic culture rather than creating promotional content purely for product sales.
Why choose Polar over established skateboard brands? Choose Polar when you value artistic innovation, Scandinavian design principles, and authentic creative expression within skateboard culture. The brand offers genuine artistic collaborations, premium construction quality, and cultural significance that transcends commercial skateboard products through meaningful creative contributions.
Shop our complete Polar Skate Co collection, featuring artistic excellence, Scandinavian design, and creative innovation from skateboard culture's premier artistic institution. Enjoy fast, free UK premium delivery on orders over £70, with free next-day delivery available for orders placed before 4pm.